by Mike Garafolo, USA TODAY Sports

by Mike Garafolo, USA TODAY Sports

Don't just assume Tim Tebow can pack up, move to Canada and dominate in the CFL.

Jim Popp isn't.

"We do own his rights and, just like anybody else, we're very curious to see what he's capable of doing," the Montreal Alouettes general manager told USA TODAY Sports on Monday, a few hours after the New York Jets waived Tebow. "What can he do? Well, we don't know until we have him in our system.

"These questions about throwing - our field is wider, bigger and there are more holes. But the misconception about the CFL is it's much easier for a quarterback. That's not necessarily true. If you can't make all the throws, you can't win consistently in the CFL, either.

"So there are still unanswered questions. He's an intriguing person, but can he play in Canada?"

Tebow isn't talking right now, and his agent, Jimmy Sexton, hasn't responded to e-mails seeking comment. But it's probably safe to say the prideful Tebow doesn't prefer to play in Canada in the same way he's resisted permanently changing positions.

But the notion he should head north because he'd dominate in an inferior league is one Popp doesn't automatically accept. Just like an NFL team, the Alouettes would have to change their offense to suit Tebow, as the Denver Broncos did in 2011.

Popp, who stands by Anthony Calvillo (the all-time leading passer in CFL and pro foootball history) as the Alouette's starter in the immediate future, said he's had discussions about doing that with former coach Marc Trestman (now with the Chicago Bears) and current coach Dan Hawkins. Trestman was open to the possibility, as was Hawkins.

Popp believes the bigger field in Canada (35 feet wider than the NFL playing field) could create lots of running room for Tebow. And yes, the throwing lanes are bigger as well. Plus, Popp said the Alouettes already use a sub quarterback for 40-year-old Calvillo when running short-yardage plays, sneaks and the like. Tebow could surely fill that role as well.

But overall, there would have to be an overhaul of the offensive scheme for Tebow.

"I don't think there are NFL teams willing to do that," Popp said. "(Tebow) would be a backup with the Alouettes just like the Jets. That means waiting patiently, learning the game and not playing, unless injuries force you into it."

Popp, who has never spoken to Tebow or his representatives, added, "We're not chasing him. If he has interest in coming to Canada, he'll make that decision."

And then, Popp and Hawkins would try to figure out if Tebow can adjust to a very different game.

"There are four guys in motion and DBs all over the place, you have to prepare yourself for that. It takes adjustment," Popp said. "It's a confusing game. Everything isn't not determined pre-snap like you see in the NFL. It's on the fly, like in the arena leagues. All of that originated in Canada.

"There are nuances to it. It's a big learning curve and it takes a while to adjust."